8 Great Off Beat Destinations to Check in 2013

If your new year resolution is to explore new destination, then this vacation list is for you. Drawn up by members and editors of Virtual Tourist, is a list of great, off- beat places for you to explore in 2013

Source: Reuters

Chile

Stretching 4,270 km along the Pacific Ocean, Chile's length and range of latitudes (from subtropical to sub Antarctic) create incredible biodiversity and a variety of natural settings to enjoy. The Torres del Paine National Park is the most splendid form during these months. Atacama Desert, Santiago and Valpariso make for must-visits through the year. One of the most arid places in the world, the Atacama is an especially great site for avid star-watchers. The sky here is clear for about 340 days a year. Chile’s capital Santiago is a growing metropolis and located adjacent to fantastic vineyards. Valpariso, only 120km from Santiago on the coast, is the most vital coast. The UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its sloping hills filled with colorful homes.

Norway

Since NASA has predicted that this winter season (October 2012 - April 2013) in the Northern Hemisphere will see the brightest northern lights display in 50 years, Norway is a natural pick. Tromsø, or the capital of the Arctic, is an ideal location for viewing northern lights with its mild winters and long nights. Be warned, the temperature, from January to April, is about 31 degree fahrenheit.

Iceland

For most nature lovers, Iceland is a fixture on their travel bucket lists. The island nation is filled with dramatic natural landscapes and unique features from hot springs to lava fields to glaciers. A natural occurrence that makes visiting Iceland this year a major priority is this year's Northern lights display. Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site, on a night before the end of March means for a remarkable view.

Myanmar

After US political leaders visited the Asian nation last year, Myanmar made its way to many travel wish lists. The town of Yangon (Rangoon) with its Shwedagon Paya is a must-visit. The golden stupa that can be seen from miles, Paya is deemed as the most sacred Burmese temple. Further north, the Mandalay division showcases some of the finest teak temples in the country. As such, the view from atop Mandalay is quite breathtaking. The pagodas of Bagan are also worth a visit.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The islands are best known for their natural ecosystems and unique species. The national park and marine biological reserve are undoubtedly the most interesting places visit. Cuenca, a city famous for its colonial structures, is worth a visit. It is 2 hour and 50 minute drive from the coastal port of Guayaquil, the most common port of entry to the Galapagos.

Shanghai, China

The primary bastion of economic growth in mainland China, Shanghai is an interesting juxtaposition of historic buildings and booming growth. Visit the Shanghai Museum, located on People's Square, and get an introduction to the city and China's fascinating history. A great comparison between old China and new Shanghai can be seen by strolling Dongtai Road's antiques shops, followed by a visit to Moganshan Road - the buzzing location of many Chinese contemporary art galleries. Lastly, attend the light shows at night by the Pearl Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and other landmark buikdings in Pudong.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

Traditionally, the majority of visitors choose the Zimbabwe side of the Zambezi River. However, the Zambian side also gives you much to explore. Along with a spectacular view of Victoria Falls, it provides an opportunity to explore the Mosi-O-Tunya National Park. Here you’re likely to see antelopes, zebras, giraffe, and even elephants crossing the Zambezi and walking freely through the area. The Lower Zambezi National Park is known for both its incredible fishing and fantastic birdlife. The walking safari is another highlight. It sees a game guide lead travelers deep into the bushes as elephants and baboons rest a few yards away.

Antarctica

If you really want to venture off the beaten path, travel out to the seventh continent.The continent has been open to private travellers only since 1991 and can be a challenging, but great once-in-a-lifetime experience.Environmentally- cruise tours can be booked to help protect and sustain Antarctica's environment. Each season brings different sights for visitors - in February (or late summer), whale sightings are at their best and receding pack ice allows ships to explore further south.